Term 2 finished in a frenzy of flag finding this week with championships or gala days in the Hunter, Southern Highlands and Sydney West secondary schools regions.
Thursday at Fred Caterson Reserve in Castle Hill rounded off a hectic three straight days for our team of volunteer coaches, setters and SI gurus. Debutants The Ponds High School easily won the Sydney West trophy under sunny skies.
This was the first time we have held a separate secondary day in Sydney West, and the 71 students were very keen to come back next year.
Wednesday in Mittagong was mild with regular bursts of sunlight and none of Sydney's cold rain as eight schools gathered on the shores of Lake Alexandra. Numbers were encouragingly well up on last year's inaugural event, with 162 entries.
As well as a number of younger runners competing in an easy course, Chevalier College (the 2016 winners) were knocked for six by newcomers Hurlstone Agricultural High School who took out podium places in all classes - resulting in their elevation to champions on debut.
Elderslie High School, Wollondilly Anglican College and Macarthur Anglican School were also represented in the placings.
A big welcome to Mt Annan High School, Lumeah High School and the local Home-School group who experienced real orienteering competition and had a wonderful day.
And on Tuesday at Pelaw Main, the annual Hunter schools champs drew 80-odd students for a complex track network. Regular orienteering kids and rookies alike were all smiles.
Thanks to all the Newcastle, SHOO, WHO and other ONSW people who helped with these days - and especially the hard-working teachers who make them possible.
